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Ferrari Purosangue Gallops Into Malaysian Market – From RM5 Million

The first-ever SUV in Ferrari’s 75-year history was revealed in September 2022. Now, thanks to Ital Auto Malaysia Sdn Bhd, the official importer and distributor of Ferrari cars in Malaysia, it finally entered the Malaysian market. Ferrari has taken time to ensure that the driving dynamics and performance allow the Purosangue to have the Prancing Horse on its bonnet.

To achieve its ambitious goals for the Purosangue project, Ferrari developed a completely different layout. The mid-front-mounted engine has the gearbox at the rear, adopting a transaxle layout. The Power Transfer Unit (PTU) provides an all-wheel-drive transmission, resulting in a 49:51 weight distribution optimal for a mid-front-engined sports car.

The Purosangue’s engine, adapted from the 812 Superfast engine (F140IA), is the most powerful ever developed by Ferrari for a 4-seater car. It features a 65° angle between cylinder banks, a 6.5-litre capacity, a dry sump, and high-pressure direct injection. Tuned for high torque at low revs, it produces 80% of maximum torque at 2,100 rpm, peaking at 716Nm at 6,250 rpm, with a maximum power output of 725PS at 7,750 rpm.

The 8-speed, oil-bath dual-clutch transmission has a compact layout with reduced height, contributing to enhanced handling. The transmission’s gear shift times are reduced, with new gear ratios having shorter spacing, and a longer top ratio for greater highway economy.

Aerodynamics played a crucial role in the Purosangue’s design. The bodywork underwent aero development similar to other Ferrari sports cars, with features like an air curtain to aerodynamically seal the front wheels and manage turbulent transverse air flows.

The car’s aero design focused on the centreline section, reducing drag and achieving a seamless profile between the bonnet and windscreen. Elements like the suspended spoiler and nolder on the boot lip contribute to managing flow separations and pressure fields, ensuring stability.

The Purosangue features an advanced chassis with a spaceframe made of high-strength aluminium alloy for reduced weight. The carbon fibre roof is standard, providing rigidity similar to a glass roof but weighing 20% less than an aluminium roof with soundproofing.

In terms of dynamics, the Purosangue adopts the latest control systems, including independent 4-wheel steering and ABS ‘evo’ with the 6-way Chassis Dynamic Sensor. The active suspension system, making its world debut, effectively controls body roll and tire contact patch over high-frequency bumps, delivering performance and handling response consistent with other Ferraris.

The cabin accommodates four generously sized seats, and the driver benefits from a commanding view. The interior architecture follows the dual cockpit dashboard concept, offering a digital interface with a 10.2-inch display. For the first time in Ferrari’s history, the cabin has four separate and independently adjustable seats, integrating comfort-focused components and variable density foams for unprecedented occupant comfort. The Purosangue’s interior combines sportiness and luxury in a layout inspired by the SF90 Stradale.

The interior of the Ferrari Purosangue introduces a range of innovative features, showcasing the brand’s commitment to luxury, sustainability, and customisation. Owners can opt for a floor trim made from high-strength fabric used in military uniforms, ensuring exceptional toughness and durability.

A new dark brown semi-aniline leather adds an elegant and contemporary touch to the interior. The availability of a carbon fibre weave with integrated copper wire provides a sophisticated take on traditional carbon fibre elements. The SUV boasts the largest boot volume ever seen in a Ferrari, complemented by an electrically activated rear hatch for convenient access.

Sustainability takes centre stage, with 85% of the launch trim produced from recycled materials, including a special version of Alcantara made from 68% post-consumer recycled polyester. Owners have extensive customisation options, including the ability to personalise the roof, a first for Ferrari. Furthermore, the Purosangue features an air quality sensor, a groundbreaking addition to the Ferrari range, ensuring a clean and healthy environment inside the cabin.

Ferrari’s unparalleled quality standards and increasing focus on client service underpin the extended seven-year maintenance programme offered with the Purosangue. Available across the entire range, the latter covers all regular maintenance for the first seven years of the car’s life. This scheduled maintenance programme for Ferraris is an exclusive service that allows clients the certainty that their car is being kept at peak performance and safety over the years. This very special service is also available to owners of pre-owned Ferraris.

All Ferrari owners in Malaysia can perform regular maintenance (at intervals of either 20,000 km or once a year with no mileage restrictions) with Genuine Spare Parts at Ital Auto’s Official Aftersales Centre in Glenmarie, Kuala Lumpur. As part of the Official Dealership Network, the centre is fully equipped with Ferrari Diagnostic equipment and is manned by highly-trained personnel, including Certified Master Technicians with over 10 years of experience in servicing Ferrari vehicles.

Want one? Well, if you have deep pockets, the Ferrari Purosangue is available in Malaysia from RM5,000,000.00 inclusive of duties and taxes.

Ferrari SF90 XX Stradale Sets Fiorano Lap Record: 1:17.3

There are fast cars and there are really fast cars. Ferrari has announced that its SF90 XX Stradale, a limited-series special based on the SF90 Stradale, has set a new lap record at Fiorano, Ferrari’s private test track. The car clocked a time of 1 minute and 17.309 seconds, making it the fastest lap by a homologated road car. Driven by Raffaele de Simone, Ferrari’s Head of Development Test Driving, the SF90 XX Stradale achieved this feat with lightweight carbon-fibre wheels and Michelin Cup2R tires. The time was 1.4 seconds faster than the original SF90 Stradale equipped with the Assetto Fiorano package and the same tires.

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Richard Mille Unveils Ultra-Thin RM UP-01 Ferrari Watch

Richard Mille and Ferrari have joined forces to create a remarkable ultra-thin watch – the RM UP-01 Ferrari. This watch not only embodies a blend of their best expertise but also aligns with the values shared by both iconic brands.

The RM UP-01 Ferrari combines elegant design with sporting mechanisms, defying contemporary trends to establish new aesthetic codes. The watch is a testament to their partnership, and its technical prowess is particularly impressive.

At a mere 1.75 millimetres thick, the RM UP-01 Ferrari is an impressive technological feat, showcasing a fresh approach to watch mechanics where technicality governs aesthetics. Over six thousand hours of development and laboratory testing went into its creation, resulting in a timepiece that breaks traditional conventions.

To create this ultra-flat watch, a traditional movement with superimposed gears and hands was not an option. Instead, a close relationship between the movement and case was established to ensure both delivered the required rigidity. The baseplate and bridges are crafted from grade 5 titanium, a biocompatible, highly corrosion-resistant, and rigid alloy. These qualities make it a common material in industries like aerospace, aeronautics, and automotive.

The RM UP-01 Ultraflat features a new escapement and balance wheel in grade 5 titanium that significantly reduces the calibre’s thickness while maintaining security. This patented ultra-flat escapement does away with traditional dart and safety roller components, streamlining the design and reducing its height.

The two crowns integrated into the bezel offer winding (W) and hand-setting (H) functions, while two black ceramic inserts protect the bezel and ensure water resistance.

The RM UP-01 Ferrari is a limited edition with only 150 pieces available, each priced at $1.88 million.

Ferrari Unveils Limited-Run 499P Modificata Track-Only Supercar

Ferrari has introduced a limited-run, track-only supercar, the 499P Modificata. This high-performance machine is based on the race-winning Ferrari 499 that claimed victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans four months ago, but it offers even more power and features for racers.

Powertrain

The 499P Modificata is powered by the same 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine as the Le Mans-winning race car. Additionally, it features an electric motor at the front axle, providing a combined output of 858hp. A unique feature is that the electric assistance is available from a standstill, unlike the Le Mans car, which activates its electric power beyond 190km/h.

‘Push to Pass’ System

Ferrari has equipped the 499P Modificata with a ‘Push to Pass’ system, which can deliver an extra 161hp at the push of a button, providing a burst of power for overtaking and acceleration.

High-Performance Rubber

The car comes standard with bespoke Pirelli tyres, measuring 310/70-18 at the front and 340/70-18 at the rear. These tyres feature a structure and tread compound derived from Formula 1 technology. Additionally, a custom rain tyre has been developed specifically for the 499P Modificata.

Lightweight Carbon Fibre Construction

The car’s body is crafted entirely from lightweight carbon fibre, helping to keep the overall weight down and enhance performance. Although Ferrari hasn’t disclosed the downforce figures, it’s expected to provide substantial aerodynamic grip.

Sporty Interior

The interior is virtually identical to the race car’s cabin, ensuring owners receive the same driving experience as Le Mans-winning crews. Ferrari has created the 499P Modificata to be a thrilling track experience for those who value performance and the thrill of racing.

Exclusivity and Track Access

This limited-run Ferrari is available for private purchase, starting at €5.1 million (approximately RM25 million) before taxes. Owners will also enjoy two years of running the car in Ferrari’s Sport Prototipi Clienti program, which provides access to numerous international tracks. Ferrari takes care of logistics, track-side assistance, and maintenance for the car, ensuring a hassle-free track experience.

Ferrari Reveals 296 Challenge Ahead of Finali Mondiali

Ferrari has unveiled the 296 Challenge on the eve of the highly anticipated Finali Mondiali event, scheduled to take place at the Mugello Circuit from October 24th to 30th. This marks the ninth model in the prestigious history of the Ferrari Challenge Trofeo Pirelli.

Set to make its debut in the 2024 season of the Europe and North America series, the 296 Challenge introduces a host of groundbreaking features, setting it apart from its predecessor, the Ferrari 488 Challenge Evo. In many aspects, this new model represents a revolutionary design.

The 296 Challenge embodies an innovative philosophy that involves extensive modifications to the road car, tailoring it for optimal track performance. From performance to race-long consistency, this remarkable vehicle redefines the standards of Ferrari’s single-make racing series, closely mirroring the specifications of the 296 GT3, which made its debut this season.

Derived from the 296 GTB, the 296 Challenge showcases substantial enhancements in the power unit, aerodynamics, and vehicle dynamics, all designed to deliver peak performance on the track. Notably, it’s the first car in the championship’s history to feature a 120-degree V6 engine. This model is equipped with the 2992cc twin-turbo engine, excluding the hybrid component, a decision also reflected in the 296 GT3. The engine delivers a remarkable 690hp and a maximum torque of 740Nm, setting a new power record for the segment.

The 296 Challenge boasts an aero package that shatters downforce records within the single-make series. This ensures optimal efficiency under all conditions, producing over 870kg of downforce at 250km/h when the spoiler is set at its maximum angle of attack.

A standout feature in this model is the introduction of ABS EVO Track, a specialised adaptation of the innovative system initially introduced in the 296 GTB. Combined with new CCM-R PLUS brake discs, this enhances both braking performance and consistency. Additionally, the vehicle’s handling and performance benefit significantly from specially developed Pirelli 19″ tyres.

Ferrari’s unveiling of the 296 Challenge marks a significant milestone in the evolution of their Challenge Trofeo Pirelli series, setting the stage for an exhilarating 2024 season and beyond. The Mugello Circuit during the Finali Mondiali is the ideal platform to witness the debut of this groundbreaking racing machine.

London’s Supercar Theft Epidemic Raises Alarms In The Capital

London, renowned as the nation’s epicentre for high-end automobiles, is facing a growing concern as a recent surge in thefts targeting supercars has placed owners on edge. In recent weeks, criminals armed with sophisticated methods have been specifically targeting Ferraris, prompting a city-wide frenzy to secure these prized possessions.

For the past decade, London has been a sought-after summer destination for ultra-high-net-worth individuals, who transport their private supercar collections to the city for leisure. However, over the last three months, a notable escalation in high-value vehicle thefts is posing a threat to supercar ownership in London, as reported by Windrush Car Storage, a discreet sanctuary offering top-tier security for exclusive vehicles.

During a fateful Saturday at the end of May, Windrush was inundated with phone calls from anxious owners seeking secure locations for their cherished vehicles, responding to a flurry of reports on stolen Ferraris across the city. Among the stolen vehicles were high-value models like the 812 Superfast, 488, and Pista.

Alastair Main, the general manager of Windrush, highlighted the urgency and distress exhibited by owners, especially those with Italian luxury brands, as they hurried to safeguard their vehicles from the rising theft wave. He noted that social media posts from owners, urging the public to be on the lookout and even offering rewards, triggered a surge in vehicles being brought into their secure facility.

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Ferrari 812 Superfast N-Largo S Gets A Novitec Upgrade

The Novitec N-Largo S is a limited-edition widebody version created by German automotive refinement specialist Novitec for the Ferrari 812 Superfast. Limited to just three vehicles worldwide, this special edition has already been completely sold out.

Exterior Enhancements

The N-Largo S features a widened body, achieved through lightweight yet durable carbon-fibre components. The wider front fenders and flares at the rear axle add 14cm to the car’s width compared to the standard Ferrari 812 Superfast, enhancing its aerodynamics and visual appeal. The rear end is redesigned with an integrated rear spoiler in a striking and aerodynamically efficient ducktail design.

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Novitec Takes On The Ferrari 812 Competizione

Novitec needs no introduction, but for the uninitiated, the company specialises in making unique changes for well-known Italian automakers including Ferrari, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, and Lamborghini. Novitec’s recent take was with a Ferrari 812 Competizione. Not so much on the visual side, but more performance-focused upgrades were done.

In May 2021, Ferrari unveiled the 812 Competizione, which coincidentally holds the distinction of being Ferrari’s most performance-focused grand turismo to date. This model follows in the footsteps of the F12TDF.

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Ferrari KC23: A One-Off Track-Only Weapon

The KC23, created by Ferrari’s Special Projects division, is the latest in a long line of one-offs, including the SP51, based on the 812, and the SP48 Unica, which started with a F8 Tributo. That is not to mention legends like the FXX and such.

Just like the FXX and 599XX, the KC23 is a track-only toy based on the company’s most popular racing car ever, the 488 GT3 Evo. It was built over three years for one of the brand’s “most passionate collectors.”

According to Ferrari, the glass and light clusters, along with every single line on the 488 GT3 Evo, were modified. Highlights include a massive rear wing, motorised air vents in the flanks that fold away when not in use to keep the design as tidy as possible when the car is parked, and butterfly doors that are typically only found on Ferrari hypercars.

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Ferrari Reveals The SF90 XX Stradale And SF90 XX Spider

Based on the Ferrari SF90 Stradale, the new special limited series SF90 XX Stradale was unveiled alongside its SF90 XX Spider counterpart.

Over the decades, Ferrari has developed the XX Programme to offer a select group of expert client drivers extreme cars that are not homologated for the road, but that can be driven at the very limit on the track. So with experience from this, Ferrari decided to create a road-legal car.

The Design

The SF90 XX Stradale is the most extreme variant of the SF90 Stradale; its design standards are thus those of a track car, calibrated to assure road useability. However, the SF90 XX Stradale is more than just a special edition: it is the first XX model to leave the factory, bringing the track technology, aerodynamic efficiency, and power to the road.

Two nostrils on the hood act as an exhaust for air moving through the front radiators. While cooler air is channelled around the cockpit to the massive side apertures that serve to cool the V-8, hot air from these ducts is sent upward and over the roof of the car.